Dental implants are the permanent replacment of missing teeth with artificial teeth or dentures that are attached to metal anchors, usually made of titanium, and have been surgically inserted inside the jawbone.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are the permanent replacment of missing teeth with artificial teeth or dentures that are attached to metal anchors, usually made of titanium, and have been surgically inserted inside the jawbone.

The procedure is often performed in the dental office using local anesthetic by the general dentist, oral surgeon, periodontist, or a team of these doctors. During surgery, each implant is placed within the jawbone to serve as an anchor for the attachment that will eventually support the replacement teeth. Generally, four to six months is allowed for the bone tissue to grow around the implants and hold them securely in place. Once the jawbone has firmly healed around the implant, a small attachment is placed on top of each implant. The attachment protrudes through the gum-line and serve as an anchor for the replacement teeth. After your gums have healed, an impression of the attachments and your mouth is taken, then the permanent teeth or dentures will be fabricated in a dental lab and will be placed on top of the attachment in your final visit.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Longevity and reliability with proper oral hygiene and care. Scientifically tested and approved dental implant systems have been shown to last as long as 20 years or more with few or no complications.

Increased self-confidence. Because dental implants function like natural teeth, most people who get them experience a renewed sense of self-confidence.

Improved biting pressure. Healthy teeth are able to absorb over 500 pounds of biting pressure per square inch. If you have worn dentures for long time, that pressure may be diminished significantly, to one-tenth that of natural teeth. Dental implants can often restore the amount of pressure that can be withstood to nearly the same level of healthy natural teeth.

Comfort and fit. Because your replacement teeth are anchored securely to the implants in your jawbone, they can't slip and slide like unsecured dentures can.

What type of care is required for dental implants?

Proper oral hygiene habits. With brushing, flossing and regular dental check-ups your implant will serve you well. It will increase the longevity of the implant and you will have overall satisfaction.

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